Review: Urban Carry G2 Holster

When I opened the box containing the Lieutenant G2 from Urban Carry Holsters, my wife quipped: “Another addition to the drawer of once-used holsters?”

As an NRA Instructor teaching weekend pistol classes for the past 10 years, I have acquired several “tools of the trade,” as I explained to my bride. I concede that most see little use, but I have a few favorites. At 65, my joints are a little more sensitive to slinging the extra weight of an ankle holster. Otherwise, that solution works well for me. A shoulder rig also works, but I grew tired of having to put my sport coat on when ducking into a store on a hot summer day, and the draw is awkward. Appendix carry bags work, but the draw from the leather Urban Carry is better than reaching into a soft pouch.

The Urban Carry also does a good job of masking the gun’s silhouette and, unlike a sleeve, doesn’t fill the pocket. I have used both leather and ballistic-nylon sleeves to carry my Ruger LC9 with extended magazine, but the belt-mounted Urban just rides better—on me.

As the saying goes, “the best gun in a gun fight is the one you brought with you,” so any holster solution or gun size that encourages daily carry will be a benefit. Nevertheless, many on-the-body holsters are a compromise for each individual’s unique shape. In my case, the 11 o’clock position (I’m a southpaw) allows the Urban to fold comfortably when I sit. After only a week, the leather pull flap has softened enough for a smooth draw, and I forget that I’m wearing it.

My review of blogs and YouTube testimonials unanimously reflect praise for the responsiveness of the company and their willingness to answer questions or resolve an issue. Their website has several excellent videos that address cross draw, ambidextrous use, break-in and feedback from FAQ, such as how to avoid sweeping yourself and the option of reversing the belt, if needed.

The well-constructed Urban Carry G2 holster works well for me in an environment of daily commuting, several hours sitting and afternoon errands in both casual fit jeans and slacks—with and without a sport coat. Your experience may differ.

Pricing hovers around $65 for brown or black, ambidextrous models. If you’re concerned about the suppleness of the leather, you can spend an extra $40 for the English Bridle upgrade that is reportedly softer to expedite break-in. For more details on the Urban Carry and the company's growing list of accessories, go to https://urbancarryholsters.com.